machinery equipment safety - Safety, Health and Wellness in Agriculture

May 17, 2019May 14, 2025

Tractor Stability

NH Tractor

(Photo Source: Pennsylvania State University – Ag Safety and Health)

Use the following format to cite this article:

Tractor stability. (2025) Ag Safety and Health Community of Practice. Retrieved from https://ag-safety.extension.org/tractor-stability/.

The tractor is the most recognized piece of equipment on a farm or ranch, but it is also associated with incidents that can lead to serious injuries or death. There are various makes, models, and designs for tractors, but the basic components of tractor stability remain the same. By understanding tractor stability, you can reduce your potential for a tractor overturn incident.

Understanding Center of Gravity

The center of gravity for any object is the point on the object where all parts perfectly balance one another. For example, the point at which a pencil will balance on your finger is its center, and this center point is easily found by practicing balancing a pencil on the end of your finger. But finding the center point on larger objects is not always as simple. For example, the center of gravity on a two-wheel drive tractor is typically in the center of the tractor body as you look from right to left, but is about 10 inches above and 2 feet in front of the rear axle as you look from back to front. This center of gravity placement disperses the weight so that 30 percent of the tractor’s weight is on the front axle and 70 percent is on the rear axle.

The center of gravity must remain within the tractor’s stability baseline for the tractor to remain in an upright position. Stability baselines (shown below) are imaginary lines drawn between points where the tractor tires contact the ground.

Stability Baseline Image

(Photo Source: Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety)

Compared to an automobile, the center of gravity is higher on a tractor because the tractor needs to be higher in order to complete operations over crops and rough terrain. Terrains, attachments, weights, and speeds can change the tractor’s resistance to turning over. The following examples describe situations in which the stability of a tractor can change:

Whenever mounted equipment is raised, the center of gravity is also raised, decreasing tractor stability.
Any changes in weight from an attachment, such as a front-end loader, bale fork, and so on, or load can shift the center of gravity toward the weight.
Implements that are side mounted shift the center of gravity toward the attachment.

Tractor Stability

In addition to the center of gravity, other factors important to tractor stability include centrifugal force, rear-axle torque, and drawbar leverage.

Centrifugal Force

Centrifugal force is the outward force of objects moving in a circular path. In regards to a tractor, centrifugal force is the force that is trying to roll the tractor over when it is making a turn. As the radius of the turn decreases (in a sharp turn), the centrifugal force increases. There is a relationship between centrifugal force and speed, but it is not directly proportional (for example, when the tractor speed is tripled from 3 mph to 9 mph, the centrifugal force increases 9 times). Since centrifugal force increases when turning, it is often a factor in a side overturn. The effect of this centrifugal force on stability is even greater when operating a tractor on sloped terrain.

Rear-Axle Torque

Rear-axle torque is the transfer of energy between the engine and the rear axle of a two-wheel drive tractor. When the clutch is engaged on this type of tractor, it results in a twisting force, or torque, which should rotate the tires and move the tractor forward or backward. If the rear tires are stuck (as in mud) or blocked from rotating, the rear axle is unable to rotate properly, so the tractor chassis rotates about the axle. This results in the front end of the tractor lifting off the ground, which can cause the tractor’s center of gravity to move past the rear stability baseline. This type of incident is called a rear overturn, and the “point of no return” (shown below) can occur in less than a second, which is not enough time for the operator to react and try to stop the rearward motion. A rear overturn incident with a four-wheel drive tractor can occur, but it occurs less frequently than with a two-wheel drive tractor because more weight is carried on the front axle, and the center of gravity is closer to the front of the tractor. By design, the front tires of four-wheel drive or front-wheel assist tractors have more traction and will not rise off the ground as easily as the wheels of a tractor with two-wheel drive.

Drawbar Leverage

Drawbar leverage is another stability factor in a rear overturn incident. When a two-wheel drive tractor is pulling a load, there is a backward and downward pull that causes the rear tires to become a pivot point. An “angle of pull” is created between the ground’s surface and the attachment point on the tractor that acts as a force to tip the tractor rearward. The drawbar on a tractor is designed to counteract the rearward tipping potential of pulled loads; however, when a load is attached to the tractor at any point other than the drawbar, the drawbar design is no longer effective in preventing rear overturn incidents.

Tractors are commonly used to pull stumps out of the ground. A tractor is hitched safely when the log chain is wrapped around the tree stump and attached to the tractor drawbar. The log chain is properly attached to the tractor drawbar, providing a lower “angle of pull” and decreasing the leverage necessary to tip a tractor rearward. Unsafe hitching occurs when the load is attached to a point other than the drawbar. If the log chain is attached to the rear axle instead of the drawbar, the “angle of pull” and leverage do not decrease as the tractor’s front end rises. When hitching to something that is higher than the drawbar hitch point, such as the rear axle, there is increased pressure on the rear tires. This might prevent the tractor tires from slipping and cause the front end to lift. Click here to view videos of tractor stability and tractor overturn incident demonstrations.

Use the following format to cite this article:

Tractor stability. (2025) Ag Safety and Health Community of Practice. Retrieved from https://ag-safety.extension.org/tractor-stability/.

Sources

How can you maintain stability on various gradients? (2002) Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. Retrieved from http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/tractors/stability.html.

Murphy, D. (2014) Tractor overturn hazards. Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences, Cooperative Extension. Retrieved from http://extension.psu.edu/business/ag-safety/vehicles-and-machinery/tract….

Tractor stability (2012) Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. Retrieved from http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/tractors/stability.html.

Reviewed and Summarized by:

Linda M. Fetzer, Pennsylvania State University – lmf8@psu.edu

Andrew Merryweather, University of Utah – a.merryweather@utah.edu

Dennis J. Murphy, Pennsylvania State University – Has since retired

Charles V. Schwab, Iowa State University – Has since retired

Aaron M. Yoder, University of Nebraska Medical Center – aaron.yoder@unmc.edu

May 17, 2019May 17, 2019

Agricultural Vehicles in the Woods

Use the following format to cite this article:

Agricultural vehicles in the woods. (2014) Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. Retrieved from http://articles.extension.org/pages/70337/agricultural-vehicles-in-the-w….

The risk of safety related incidents is high when a farmer or rancher uses a farm tractor to cut trees, clear fence rows, and gather firewood. The typical farm tractor is simply not designed for use in woodlots. A farm tractor lacks the safety components of timber harvest tractors or skidders, which include the following:

A heavy steel skid plate to protect the underside of the machine
A protective radiator grill
Engine side guards
10- to 12-ply flat sidewall tires
Tire chains
Front-end weights
A 10-pound ABC fire extinguisher
A spark-arrester exhaust system
A category II falling object projective structure (FOPS) with a seat belt
A protective grill for the rear window and sides of the FOPS cab
High ground clearance
Lateral stability
Nearly equal front- and rear-axle weight distribution.

The photo below is an example of a tractor equipped with a Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) and FOPS.

Tractor in the Woods

(Source: Lee Stover, L & E Stover Enterprises)

Dangerous Farm Tractor Usage

A rear overturn incident can occur with a farm tractor if a chain or cable is attached to a point higher on the tractor than the drawbar. Side overturn can occur when the farm tractor runs over a stump, rock, or tree trunk with a rear tire. Farm tractors equipped with a front-end loader should never be used to pull or push down limbs because the raised loader changes the center or gravity, placing the tractor at risk for a side overturn incident. Never use a farm tractor to complete forestry jobs such as pushing, dragging, or loading logs, without skid cones, log arches, three-point mounted grapples, or a skidding implement equipped with a three-point winch. These pieces of equipment reduce the risk of a log twisting or rolling out of the control while being dragged. Click here for more information on safe hitching.

All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) and Utility Vehicles (UTVs)

The potential for a tractor, ATV, or UTV overturn exists in woodlots because of uneven terrain and hidden obstacles such as rocks, roots, and stumps. Only specialized equipment such as timber harvest tractors and skidders should be used in woodlots. Felling of large trees for harvest should be completed by commercial operators with specialized equipment. Once a tree has been felled and located in a non-wooded area such as a fence row, the tree can be properly delimbed and sectioned for use on the farm or ranch. In order to remove the wood, you need to determine the best mode of transportation for the job and the environment.

ATVs towing wagons and UTVs with cargo beds or boxes continue to be popular choices, but it is important to understand their limitations. ATVs typically have lighter-duty suspension systems with less pulling and braking power, making them unsafe to complete most logging-type tasks. Some larger UTVs with a wider wheel base are equipped with a heavier frame and protective cage but still have limited capability in wooded areas.

When using a UTV or ATV to pull a trailer, the operator should be careful to observe the hauling capacity limits to reduce the risk of an incident. Check the manufacturer’s recommendation for any trailer that is being used to haul wood. Do not overload the trailer, and make sure that the wood is properly secured. The cargo box for each UTV has a recommended payload capacity that can vary between 500 and 1,400 pounds, depending on the make and model. It is extremely important to check the operator’s manual to determine the maximum payload capacity for your UTV. Keeping loads within the recommended payload capacity is essential to reducing the risk of an accident or potential damage to the UTV or ATV and trailer.

Extra precautions should be taken when using ATVs and UTVs in the woods for any activity. By hauling smaller amounts of wood slowly through a woodlot or along a trail that has been inspected for hidden obstacles, you can decrease the potential for an incident. Log arches can be used to stabilize smaller logs that need to be dragged from the woods, while reducing the possibility of the butt end of the log catching on a rock or stump or rolling sideways down uneven, sloping terrain. Consider winching logs that have fallen into precarious positions to a safer landing before using a light-duty ATV or UTV to pull them. The photo below shows an ATV using a log arch to safely transport logs on a path.

Photo Source: Future Forestry Products, Inc. Log arch currently manufactured by Logrite of CT.

Additional Safety Recommendations:

If you are in the woods, inform other people of your location.
Always know the location of other people in your group, especially when felling a tree.
Make sure you have a complete first aid kit with you and have a basic understanding of first aid for severe bleeding, second-degree burns, and shock.

Resources

Click here to learn more about using your ATV on a farm or ranch.

Click here to learn more about chain saw safety.

Use the following format to cite this article:

Sources

Murphy, D., Stover, L., & Harshman, W. (2011) Tractors in the woods. Penn State Extension. Retrieved from https://extension.psu.edu/tractors-in-the-woods.

Reviewers, Contributors, and Summarized by:

Willard Downs, University of Missouri – Willard@missouri.edu

Linda M. Fetzer, Pennsylvania State University – lmf8@psu.edu

Bobby Grisso, Jr., Virginia Tech – bgrisso@vt.edu

Bill Harshman, Pennsylvania State University (Has since retired)

Dennis J. Murphy, Pennsylvania State University (Has since retired)

Aaron M. Yoder, University of Nebraska Medical Center – aaron.yoder@unmc.edu

May 17, 2019March 25, 2021

Identifying and Correcting Hazards on Your Farm or Ranch

Tractor Safety Training

(Source: Penn State Ag Safety & Health)

Use the following format to cite this article:

Identifying and correcting hazards on your farm or ranch. (2013) Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. Retrieved from http://articles.extension.org/pages/69135/identifying-and-correcting-haz….

The majority of serious farm incidents involve machinery and equipment, but many hazards can be found in all areas of farm operations. Many of these incidents can be prevented through an inspection and correction of the hazard. The challenge is that most agricultural producers do not know how to properly assess and correct hazards on their farm operation.

The Farm/Agriculture/Rural/Management-Hazard Analysis Tool (FARM-HAT) was developed by the Pennsylvania State University and is the most comprehensive on-line tool for assessing and identifying ways to correct hazards in 11 major categories including, but not limited to, farm operations, dwellings, agritourism, and tractors. FARM-HAT can be used by farmers, extension educators, insurance agents and others that are interested in improving the safety of a farm operation, equipment or rural enterprise.

Take the inspection of your farm operation very seriously and also recruit other farm family members to participate in the process. Inspections can be done at various times of the year. Consider inspecting yours tractors and machinery over the winter so that you have time to complete repairs before the spring when you are preparing for the planting season.

In addition to FARM-HAT, other resources are available for specialized inspections including barns, machinery and tractors. Listed below are links to checklists for farm operations.

Resource Links – Pick a Site and Start Your Farm Inspection:

FARM-HAT (Penn State University)
Evaluate Equipment for Dangers (Iowa State University)
Your Personal Farm Safety Audit (Agricultural Safety and Health Network)

Use the following format to cite this article:

Citations:

Farm/Agricultural/Rural Management Hazard Analysis Tool. (2010) Penn State Agricultural Safety and Health. Retrieved from http://extension.psu.edu/business/ag-safety/farmhat.

Folsom, R. (2009) Barn and farm inspection checklist. Virginia Cooperative Extension. Retrieved from https://vtechworks.lib.vt.edu/bitstream/handle/10919/48862/VCE_Barn_Farm….

Hanna, M., Schwab, C., and Miller, L. (1998) Evaluate equipment for dangers. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Retrieved from http://nasdonline.org/2469/d002295/safe-farm-evaluate-equipment-for-dang….

Tractor Safety Checklist (n.d.). Canadian Agricultural Safety Association. Retrieved from http://aghealth.usask.ca/resources/documents/TractorModulePDF.pdf.

Reviewed and Summarized by:

Linda M. Fetzer, Pennsylvania State University – lmf8@psu.edu

Dennis J. Murphy, Pennsylvania State University – djm13@psu.edu

Aaron M. Yoder, University of Nebraska Medical Center – aaron.yoder@unmc.edu

May 17, 2019April 11, 2023

A Guide to Teaching Safe Tractor Operation

Tractor Safety Driving Course

(Source: Pennsylvania State University, Agricultural Safety and Health Program)

The Agricultural Safety and Health Program of the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering at the Pennsylvania State University has developed a manual called Organizing and Conducting a Safe Tractor Operation Workshop to assist agricultural producers, employers, and other experienced operators in organizing and conducting hands-on workshops that address safety practices for tractor operators. Hands-on tractor operation training is valuable because many new owners, operators, and workers are entering occupations such as production agriculture, agricultural services, forestry, landscaping, and golf-course maintenance that rely on agricultural tractors to complete tasks.

Fewer people grow up learning how to operate tractors and equipment, so the manual is useful for training individuals with varying levels of tractor-driving experience and ability. In addition to training people involved in production agriculture, the manual can also be used to train volunteers who mow places such as schools, churches, cemeteries, community parks, and grounds at civic centers. The manual is a comprehensive guide that provides information about the following topics:

Choosing instructors, tractors, equipment, and driving courses
Driving and operating tractors and equipment safely
Conducting training workshops

The manual also includes performance evaluation forms.

For a copy, please email Linda Fetzer at lmf8@psu.edu.

Reviewed and Summarized by:

Glen Blahey, Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (has since retired)

Linda M. Fetzer, Pennsylvania State University – lmf8@psu.edu

Dennis J. Murphy, Pennsylvania State University (has since retired)

Michael Pate, Utah State University – michael.pate@usu.edu

May 17, 2019January 10, 2025

NSTMOP: Instructor Information

HOSTA Hazardous Occupational Safety Training Agriculture logo

The National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Program (NSTMOP) is primarily a training program for 14- and 15-year-olds seeking employment in production agriculture. Completing the NSTMOP constitutes compliance with the training requirements of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Hazardous Occupations Order in Agriculture (AGHOs) law. However, the curriculum of this program can also be used to teach new and inexperienced tractor operators of all ages and backgrounds how to safely operate farm tractors and other machinery. In addition, the curriculum provides an introduction to farm and ranch hazards and risks. When students that are 16 years of age and older complete the program, formal evaluation (the knowledge, driving, and skills tests) and the certificate of completion are not required. Instructors might nevertheless wish to take advantage of these components to add structure to their teaching.

Youth between the ages of 14 and 15 can be certified only by Cooperative Extension educators or by high school agriculture instructors (vocational agriculture teachers or agricultural science teachers). The signature of such an educator on the U.S. Department of Labor certificate indicates that a student has successfully passed all requirements of the training program. Only approved NSTMOP instructors can use the NSTMOP curriculum materials.

Instructor Requirements

To become an instructor, you must pass this course with a minimum score of 70%. Once certified, you will gain access to additional instruction materials, including the instructors’ manual, PowerPoints to help you teach safety materials, and more.

For those seeking to become a certified NSTMOP Instructor our new online course can be accessed at Instructor Training Course.

If you have questions about the program please email Linda Fetzer at lmf8@psu.edu or call 814-865-4582.

Student Curriculum

In its third edition, this student manual provides in-depth information on what youth can expect when working on a farm, safety basics, agricultural hazards, how to operate a tractor, and how to handle materials, among other important topics. This latest edition features updated regulations, vibrant and detailed illustrations and photos, and an improved user-friendly layout, and includes:

An introduction to the NSTMOP
A program outline for the six modules
A driving test layout and evaluation form
A list of core competencies that each student should master
Instructional task sheets

While required for NSTMOP training courses, this manual is available to any adult or young person who wants to learn more about agricultural safety. To order the manual, visit Penn State Extension at https://extension.psu.edu/national-safe-tractor-and-machinery-operation-program-manual

After the instruction is complete, each student must complete a 50-question knowledge test and obtain a minimum passing score of 70%. Students who successfully pass the knowledge test are then permitted to take the skills and driving tests. Upon successful completion of all parts of the NSTMOP, students receive a formal certificate of completion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Click HERE for frequently asked questions concerning the NSTMOP program. Any additional questions can be emailed to the NSTMOP office at nstmop@psu.edu.

Reviewed and Summarized by:

Linda M. Fetzer, Pennsylvania State University – lmf8@psu.edu

Dennis J. Murphy, Pennsylvania State University – (Has since retired)

Aaron M. Yoder, University of Nebraska – aaron.yoder@unmc.edu

May 17, 2019January 10, 2025

NSTMOP: Student Information

Youth ages 14 and 15 years old seeking employment in production agriculture must comply with the training requirements of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Hazardous Occupations Order in Agriculture (AgHOs) law. As part of meeting the training requirements, youth must complete an approved training program. The National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Program (NSTMOP) is a comprehensive program that consists of 24 hours of intensive instruction that incorporates the use of task sheets accompanied by skills and driving instruction. After completing classroom instruction, each student must complete a 50-question knowledge test and obtain a minimum passing score of 70%. Once a student successfully passes the knowledge test, he or she is then be permitted to take the program’s skills and driving tests. Upon successful completion of all parts of the NSTMOP, the student receives a formal certificate of completion from the NSTMOP.

To locate an NSTMOP instructor in your area, contact the NSTMOP office at nstmop@psu.edu.

Student Curriculum

An introduction to the NSTMOP
A program outline for the six modules
A driving test layout and evaluation form
A list of core competencies that each student should master
Instructional task sheets

Frequently Asked Questions

Click HERE to view a list of commonly asked questions concerning the NSTMOP program. Any additional questions can be emailed to the NSTMOP office at nstmop@psu.edu.

Reviewed and Summarized by:

Linda M. Fetzer, Pennsylvania State University – lmf8@psu.edu

Dennis J. Murphy, Pennsylvania State University – (has since retired)

Aaron M. Yoder, University of Nebraska – aaron.yoder@unmc.edu

May 17, 2019March 25, 2021

Preventing Tractor Runover Incidents

Use the following format to cite this article:

Preventing tractor runover incidents. (2013). Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. Retrieved from http://www.extension.org/pages/67752/preventing-tractor-runover-incidents.

The main types of tractor incidents include rollovers, power-take off entanglements, and runovers. Runover incidents that occur can involve either the operator or a bystander. Tractor manufacturers have made changes (e.g., safety start system) to reduce the risk of certain types of runover incidents. However, all types of runover incidents can be prevented by understanding the hazard and following specific safety recommendations.

Runover of Extra Rider

A runover incident can occur when an extra person on the tractor falls off the tractor and is run over by the tractor or an attachment. There should never be an extra rider on a tractor. The only exception is that a few newer, larger tractor models with an enclosed rollover protective structure (ROPS) cab have a factory-installed extra seat for temporary instructional purposes only. Most tractors used on farms and ranches only have one seat and that is for the operator only. Runover incidents can occur to a person who rides on the tractor drawbar, axle housing, side links of the three-point hitch, rear-wheel fender, or other area around the operator’s seat. When standing or sitting on one of these areas, a person can lose his or her grip, be thrown from the tractor, and be run over by the tractor or an implement.

Prevention Step:

Never allow an extra rider on a tractor.

Runover of Operator

A tractor runover incident can occur to the operator if he or she falls from the moving tractor and is run over by the tractor tire or an attachment. This type of incident can occur if the operator does not buckle the seat belt on a tractor with a ROPS or if an older tractor does not have a ROPS. An operator can be knocked out of the tractor seat by a tree branch or another obstacle. The operator can also lose balance if the tractor hits a tree stump or encounters rough terrain. An operator can be run over if he or she tries to mount or dismount a moving tractor.

Prevention Steps:

Never dismount or mount a tractor or machine while it is in motion.
Use tractors with a ROPS with seat belt, and fasten the seat belt every time you operate the tractor.
Slow down when driving on rough terrain or where hidden obstacles may exist.
Before leaving the tractor seat, always shut off the tractor and set the brake or place the tractor in PARK.
Make sure that the tractor’s brakes and clutch are in properly working condition.
Replace old pan-type seats with seats that have back and arm rests.

Runover of Person Located on the Ground due to Bypass Starting

A person located on the ground near the tractor can be involved in a tractor runover incident. This type of runover can happen to the operator or a bystander if someone attempts to start the tractor from the ground (e.g., bypass starting) and the tractor is in gear.

Prevention Steps:

Always start the engine from the operator’s seat.
Add or leave the bypass shield on the starter terminals.
Keep the tractor’s electrical system in good working condition.
Do not disable or wire around the safety interlocks installed by the manufacturer.
Always visually check in all directions for people around the tractor before moving the tractor.
Reduce your speed when operating the tractor in an area where people are located.
Instruct everyone how to get the attention of a tractor operator before approaching the tractor.
Provide a safe play area for children to keep them away from farm or ranch work areas.
Make sure that all children at your farm or ranch are properly supervised at all times.

Runover of Person Located on the Ground near the Tractor

Bystanders and children are at risk of a tractor runover incident if the operator does not see them. This is especially a concern if they approach a moving vehicle while it is hauling a load in a bucket or using a bale spear attached to the front or rear of the tractor and are knocked down in its path. Bystanders do not always realize they cannot be seen by the operator. They can slip and fall under a wheel of the tractor or equipment.

Prevention Steps:

Always visually check in all directions for people around the tractor before moving the tractor.
Reduce your speed when operating your tractor in an area where people are located.
Instruct everyone how to get the attention of a tractor operator before approaching the tractor.
Bystanders should not approach a moving tractor until recognized and acknowledged by the operator.
Provide a safe play area for children to keep them away from farm or ranch work areas.
Make sure that all children at your farm or ranch are properly supervised at all times.

Use the following format to cite this article:

Sources:

Harshman, W., Yoder, A., Hilton, J., & Murphy, D. (2011) HOSTA task sheet 4.2: Tractor Hazards. Pennsylvania State University. National Safety Tractor and Machinery Operation Program. Retrieved from http://www.extension.org/sites/default/files/NSTMOP%20Task%20Sheets%20Se….

Miller, J. & Fragar, L. (2006) Farm machinery injury: Injury involving tractor run-over. Retrieved from https://sydney.edu.au/medicine/aghealth/uploaded/Research%20Reports/farm….

Smith, D. (2004) Safe tractor operation: Runover prevention. Texas A & M System AgriLIFE Extension. Retrieve from http://agsafety.tamu.edu/files/2011/06/SAFE-TRACTOR-OPERATION-RUNOVER2.pdf.

Reviewed and Summarized by:

Linda M. Fetzer, Pennsylvania State University – lmf8@psu.edu

Dee Jepsen, Ohio State University – jepsen.4@osu.edu

Dennis J. Murphy, Pennsylvania State University (Has since retired)

Charles V. Schwab, Iowa State University – cvschwab@iastate.edu

Aaron M. Yoder, University of Nebraska Medical Center – aaron.yoder@unmc.edu

May 17, 2019July 11, 2019

Machinery and Equipment Safety Publications

Agricultural Tractors and Equipment

Topic Titles	Organization	Pub Date
Big Tractor Safety	University of Maine Extension	2002
Chipper-Shredders	University of Missouri Extension	2010
Combine Fires	University of Illinois	2015
Combines and Corn Picker Safety	University of Maine Extension	2002
Dangers of Agricultural Machinery	University of Maine Extension	2002
Driving Farm Machinery Safely	University of Maine Extension	2002
Electrocution Hazards on the Farm	Iowa State University Extension and Outreach	2004
Extra Riders on Farm Equipment	Pennsylvania State University	2006
Extra Riders Mean Extra Dangers	Iowa State University Extension and Outreach	2008
Farm Dump Truck and Trailer Safety	Pennsylvania State University	2005
Farm Machinery and Equipment Safety Part 1: Recognizing and Understanding the Hazards	Rutgers Cooperative Extension	2007
Farm Machinery and Equipment Safety Part 2: Preventing Machinery Accidents During Operation	Rutgers Cooperative Extension	2007
Front-End Loader Safety	University of Maine Extension	2002
Hazards of the PTO on Farm Tractors	Alabama Cooperative Extension	2005
Machinery Safety on the Farm	Virginia Cooperative Extension	2009
Machinery Safety on the Farm	Kansas State University	2010
Operating Mowers Safely	Rutgers Cooperative Extension	2005
Potato Harvester Safety	University of Maine	2002
Power Take-Off Safety	Pennsylvania State University	2014
Preventing Farm Vehicle Backover Incidents Protecting Farmworkers from Tractor and Harvester Hazards	OSHA OSHA	2015 2014
Recognize Limitations to Avoid Injury	Iowa State University Extension and Outreach	2011
Rollover Protection for Farm Tractor Operators	Pennsylvania State University	2014
Safe Implement Hitching: A Guide for Safe Connection of Agricultural Tractors to Implements	Association of Equipment Manufacturers and Canadian Agricultural Safety Association	2011
Safe Operation of Compact Tractors	Virginia Cooperative Extension	2009
Safe Tractor Operation	University of Missouri	2002
Selection and Inspection of Hoses: An Integral Component of Everyday Equipment	Purdue Extension	2010
Skid Steer Safety for Farm and Landscape	Pennsylvania State University	2006
Skidder Safety and Efficiency: A Discussion Leader’s Guide	Virginia Cooperative Extension	2009
Three-Point Rotary Lawn and Brush Mower Safety	The Ohio State University	2015
Tractor Hitch Pin: A Critical Component in Keeping Control of Implements	Purdue Extension	2012
Tractors in the Woods	Pennsylvania State University	2011
Tractor Stability and Instability	Pennsylvania State University	2014
Tractor Safety	University of Maine	2002
Use Tractors with ROPS to Save Lives	Iowa State University Extension and Outreach	2002
Wagon Safety	University of Maine Extension	2002

Agricultural Vehicles, Visibility, and Public Roadways

Topic Titles	Organization	Pub Date
A New Look for Farm Safety: Reflective and Fluorescent Tape	Iowa State University and Outreach	2000
Farm Dump Truck and Trailer Safety	Pennsylvania State University	2013
Hold it Down! (Poster) Hold it Down! (Pocket Guide)	Purdue University	2008
Lighting Self-Propelled Farm Equipment	Alabama Cooperative Extension	2005
Make Sure Your Load Is Secure	The Ohio State University	2011
Rx for SMV Highway Safety: Be Conspicuous	Pennsylvania State University	2013
Securing the Load	Purdue Extension	2009
Transporting Farm Equipment	Purdue University	2011
Use SMV Emblems for Your Safety	Iowa State University Extension and Outreach	2004

ATV

Topic Titles	Organization	Pub Date
All-Terrain Vehicle Safety	National Children’s Center for Rural and Agricultural Health and Safety	2003
All-Terrain Vehicle Safety: ATV Safety for Farm Work, Recreation	Iowa State University Extension and Outreach	2008
All-Terrain Vehicles	University of Missouri Extension	2000
ATVs and Youth: Matching Children and Vehicles	Pennsylvania State University	2013
Safe Use of ATVs in Agriculture	Pennsylvania State University	2013

Chain Saws and Tree Felling

Topic Titles	Organization	Pub Date
Chain Saw Safety	University of Maine Extension	2002
Chain Saws: Safety, Operation, Tree Felling Techniques	Kansas State University	2011
Chainsaw Safety Tips	University of Georgia Cooperative Extension	2010
Felling, Limbing, and Bucking Trees	University of Missouri	2011
Operating a Chain Saw Safely	University of Missouri	2011

Hand Signals

Topic Titles	Organization	Pub Date
Agricultural Hand Signals	Pennsylvania State University	2008

Lawn Care

Topic Titles	Organization	Pub Date
Hand Tools Safety: Lawncare	Virginia Cooperative Extension	2012
Hand Tools Safety: Lawncare Training Guide	Virginia Cooperative Extension	2012
Lawnmower Safety: Practice Lawnmower Safety on Farms	Iowa State University Extension	2008
Power Tool Safety	University of Maine Extension	2002
Powered Hand Tool Safety: Lawncare	Virginia Cooperative Extension	2012
Powered Hand Tool Safety: Lawncare Training Guide	Virginia Cooperative Extension	2012
Rotary Mowers Safety: Lawncare	Virginia Cooperative Extension	2012
Rotary Mowers Safety: Lawncare Training Guide	Virginia Cooperative Extension	2012
Utility Type Vehicle (UTV) Safety: Lawncare	Virginia Cooperative Extension	2012
Utility Type Vehicle (UTVs): Lawncare Training Guide	Virginia Cooperative Extension	20012

May 17, 2019March 25, 2021

Machinery and Equipment Safety Video Resources

Equipment Safety

Topic Titles	Organization	Resource Type
Agricultural Equipment Operator Safety (2002)	Iowa State University	CD/Video available to purchase ($25)
Farm Augers: Manage the Safety Risks (2011) 4:18 minutes	Canadian Agricultural Safety Association	Free – Online video via YouTube
Farm S.O.S. (Strategies on Safety) Video Series: ATV Safety (2014) 1:15 minutes	Ohio State University	Free – Online video via YouTube
Farm S.O.S. (Strategies on Safety) Video Series: Slow Moving Vehicle (SMV) Emblem (2014) 1:09 minutes	Ohio State University	Free – Online video via YouTube
For Your Safety: Industrial and Agricultural Mower Safety Practices (2005) 11:00 minutes English Spanish	Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM)	Free – Online video via YouTube or click here to purchase a copy ($10).
Mechanical Hazards (2011) 10 video series on mechanical hazards (e.g., pinch point, crush point, etc.)	Pennsylvania State University	Free – Online video via YouTube
Skid Loader Operation Walkthrough (2012) 6:04 minutes	Environmental Health and Safety Iowa State University	Free – Online video via YouTube
Skid Steer Loader Safety (2013) 27:20 minutes	Kansas State University	Free – Online video via YouTube

General Machinery and Equipment

Topic Titles	Organization	Resource Type
ATV and Farm Utility Vehicle Safety (2010) 25:57 minutes	Farm Employers Labor Service	Available for purchase – $59/DVD
Ag Hand and Power Tool Safety (2000) 13:00 minutes	Farm Employers Labor Service	Available for purchase – $135/DVD
Agricultural Safety Signals (2011) English Spanish	Pennsylvania State University – Videos that demonstrate the 11 ASABE hand signals when operating equipment	Free – Online videos via YouTube
Adam Hall – Lawn Mower Fatality – Economics and Social Cost (2013) 7:42 minutes	U.S. Agricultural Safety and Health Centers	Free – Online videos via YouTube

Rural Roadways

Topic Titles	Organization	Resource Type
Rural Driving/Defensive Driving (2000) 33:00 minutes	Farm Employers Labor Services	Available for purchase – $75/DVD
Rural Road Crashes: They’re Preventable (2011) 10:00 minutes	Iowa’s Center for Agricultural Safety and Health	Free – Online video
Sharing the Roadways in Amish Country (2011) 10:33 minutes	Ohio State University	Free – Online video via YouTube

Topic Titles

Organization

Resource Type

Rural Driving/Defensive Driving (2000)

33:00 minutes

Farm Employers Labor Services

Available for purchase – $75/DVD

Rural Road Crashes: They’re Preventable (2011)

10:00 minutes

Iowa’s Center for Agricultural Safety and Health

Free – Online video

Sharing the Roadways in Amish Country (2011)

10:33 minutes

Ohio State University

Free – Online video via YouTube

Tractor and PTO Safety

Topic Titles	Organization	Resource Type
Farm S.O.S. (Strategies on Safety) Curriculum Videos: PTO Safety (2014) 1:15 minutes	Ohio State University	Free – Online video via YouTube
Farm Tractor Safety: More than Plows and PTOs (2010) 53:00 minutes English Spanish	Washington State Department of Labor & Industries	Free – Online video via Windows Media Player
How to Install and Maintain a Shaft Cover on a Tractor PTO (2012) 8:17 minutes	Alabama Cooperative Extension	Free – Online video via YouTube
Multi-State ROPS Rebate Program (2013) 4:54 minutes	U.S. Agricultural Safety and Health Centers	Free – Online video via YouTube
Pre-Operation Maintenance Checks (2011) 9 video series coolant, tires, master shield, etc.	Pennsylvania State University	Free – Online video via YouTube
Power Take-Off Safety (2011) 3:03 minutes	Canadian Agricultural Safety Association	Free – Online video via YouTube
Proper Use of a PTO-Driven Posthole Digger (2012) 7:14 minutes	Alabama Cooperative Extension	Free – Online video via YouTube
Rollover Protection Structures (2011) 2:16 minutes	Canadian Agricultural Safety Association	Free – Online video via YouTube
Safe Operation of Farm Tractors: A Basic Overview for Farm Owners and Operators (2015) (9 segments in the series)	University of Wisconsin	Free – Online videos via YouTube
Tractor Operation for Hispanic Youth (2012) Video clips from 7 modules (e.g., vestimenta segura, senales conlas manos, etc.) Complete Curriculum	Pennsylvania State University	Free – Online videos via YouTube
Tractor Rollover Protection Plus Seatbelts Save Lives (2011) 3:45 minutes	Canadian Agricultural Safety Association	Free – Online video via YouTube
Tractor Safety: Avoid Rollovers (2001) 00:31minutes	Mississippi State University	Free – Online video
Tractor Safety: Falling Objects (2001) 00:31 minutes	Mississippi State University	Free – Online video
Tractor Safety: Front Loaders (2001) 00:31 minutes	Mississippi State University	Free – Online video
Tractor Safety: Lifting Heavy Loads (2001) 00:31 minutes	Mississippi State University	Free – Online video
Tractor Safety: Proper Hitching (2001) 00:31 minutes	Mississippi State University	Free – Online video
Tractor Safety: Safe Turns (2001) 00:31 minutes	Mississippi State University	Free – Online video
Tractor Safety: Rollover Protective Structures (2001) 00:33 minutes	Mississippi State University	Free – Online video
Tractor Safety Elements (2011) 11:37 minutes English Spanish	SAIF Corporation and Agri-Business Council of Oregon	Free – Online video
Tractor Safety – 3-part series (2007) (Part 1: Basic operation; Part 2: Highway safety; Part 3: PTO and hitching)	Farm Employers Labor Services	Available for purchase – $145/DVD

May 17, 2019April 8, 2020

Gearing Up for Safety

Gearing Up Image

(Source: Purdue University)

Gearing Up for Safety is an outcomes-based instructional program developed to provide training for youth seeking employment in agricultural production. It was designed both for youth living on family farms and for 14- and 15-year-olds who want to be certified under the provisions of the Agricultural Hazardous Occupations Order (AgHOs) to perform certain work activities on a farm operation. AgHOs is a set of federal safety and health standards that classify certain tasks as hazardous for youth under the age of 16. By participating in Gearing Up for Safety, youth are able to meet the AgHOs training requirements for operating a tractor of more than 20 horsepower, connecting and disconnecting implements, and operating certain farm machines.

Gearing Up for Safety is intended for national use through the Cooperative Extension Service and agricultural education programs, both of which are specifically identified by AgHOs as authorized to conduct AgHOs certification training.

Curriculum

The Gearing Up for Safety program includes a Program Leaders’s Guide (CD-ROM) that provides instructors with tools for organizing and conducting an agricultural safety training program that meets the requirements of AgHOs and addresses the most frequent causes of injuries and fatalities to youth in agriculture. The program also includes a student CD-ROM consisting of 11 units that allows students to execute certain aspects of the training independently. The curriculum is also supported by an extensive website. (Click here to be directed to the Gearing Up for Safety website.)

The Program Leader’s Guide includes the following components:

Suggested teaching aids
Core competencies that each student should master
Graphics for presenting key points
Lesson outlines with supplemental background information
Activity worksheets
Review test questions
PowerPoint presentations
Examples of farm injuries for classroom discussion
Evaluation tools
- These evaluation tools assess students’ knowledge of material, ability to perform preoperational safety inspections, and ability to safely maneuver a tractor through a standardized obstacle course.

Program materials are available online and for purchase as CD-ROMs:

Online curriculum: http://www.ydae.purdue.edu/tractor/default.htm

Reviewed and Summarized by:

Linda M. Fetzer, Pennsylvania State University – lmf8@psu.edu

William E. Field, Purdue University – field@purdue.edu

Dennis J. Murphy, Pennsylvania State University – (Has since retired)

Aaron M. Yoder, University of Nebraska Medical Center – aaron.yoder@unmc.edu